It was an early homecoming for Willow Run High School football coach Rufus Pipkins as the Flyers opened the season with a 50-0 win at Saginaw Buena Vista High School on Thursday.

Pipkins, who is originally from the Saginaw area, was happy for a chance for his team to play in front of his extended family.

Apparently, his son, Devere Pipkins, shared his sentiments.

Devere led the team in rushing with 106 yards on seven attempts, receiving with 121 yards and a touchdown on five receptions, and led the team in tackles with 14.

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"It was great to play in front of my family," Pipkins said. "Especially for them to have a chance to see Devere (Pipkins) play."

Freshman quarterback Marquis Smith was 7-of-12 for 285 yards and two passing touchdowns and rushed for 72 yards and two more scores on just four attempts

"We have a very skilled team this year," Pipkins said. "Smith played very well with limited mistakes. Devere (Pipkins) played well, the team overall played well."

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